Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Carter, SD
Thinking of moving to Carter, SD? This quiet rural community of just 44 residents offers a low cost of living, with median home prices around $93,000 and average rents at $710. Carter enjoys a sunny climate with 60% sunny days and classic Great Plains seasons. Commutes are short at 23.5 minutes, and while the area is peaceful, crime rates are moderate for the region. With a high owner-occupancy rate and access to local schools and healthcare, Carter is a great fit for those seeking small-town living and wide open spaces.
Demographics - Carter, SD
Demographics - Carter, SD
Carter, SD is a small rural community with a population of just 44, where the median age is 47.8 years and the area has a low population density. The community is predominantly White, with a notable Native American presence, and a slightly higher number of males compared to females. A small percentage of residents speak a language other than English at home, contributing to the town's modest cultural diversity.
Population:
44
Density:
5 per sq mi
Median Age:
47.8
Gender Ratio:
110 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
6.1%

Ethnic Composition
White:
85.2%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Carter, SD?
Carter offers an affordable lifestyle, with the median home value at $93,000 and average rents around $710 per month. The overall cost of living index is well below the national average, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious movers. Essential expenses like utilities and groceries are reasonable, and South Dakota's 0% state income tax further reduces living costs.
Median House Value:
$93,000
Gross Rent:
$710
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$130
Auto Insurance:
$1,220
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$850
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$350
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
0%
Cost Of Living Index:
83.7
Grocery:
94.0
Housing:
62.0
Utilities:
102.5
Transportation:
86.5
Health Care:
109.0
Miscellaneous:
92.5
Crime
Is Carter, SD a safe place to live?
Carter experiences moderate crime rates for its size, with about 280 violent crimes and 1,480 property crimes per 100,000 residents. While the chances of experiencing a violent crime are fairly low, property crime is more common, so residents should remain vigilant. The small community atmosphere helps maintain a sense of security overall.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
280
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,480
Crime Index:
1,760
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 357
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 68
Weather
What is the weather like in Carter, SD year-round?
Carter enjoys four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching highs near 89°F and cold winters dipping to lows of 7°F. The town receives an average of 21.2 inches of rainfall each year and boasts 60% sunny days, making it ideal for those who appreciate sunshine and seasonal variety. Residents should be prepared for both chilly winters and pleasant, mild springs and autumns.

Winter
Min:
7°F
Max:
31°F

Spring
Min:
31°F
Max:
64°F

Summer
Min:
54°F
Max:
89°F

Fall
Min:
33°F
Max:
68°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
21.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
60%
Neighbors
Residents of Carter benefit from a quiet, close-knit community with a median household income of $54,200 and a low unemployment rate of 3.0%. Most neighbors have at least a high school education, and commute times average a short 23.5 minutes. With no public transit use and a modest poverty rate, Carter appeals to those seeking a laid-back, rural lifestyle.
Median Income:
$28,000
Household Income:
$54,200
Family Income:
$61,500
Per Capita Income:
$24,200
Income Male:
$31,000
Income Female:
$22,750
Poverty Rate:
15.3%
Non English Speakers:
6.1%
Rent:
$710
Unemployment Rate:
3.0%
Public Transport Usage:
0.0%
Commute Time:
23.5 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
88.8%
Bachelors or More:
17.2%
Education
How are the schools in Carter, SD?
Carter is served by Colome Consolidated School, a small public school with a favorable student-teacher ratio, ensuring personalized attention for students. While there are no private schools in town, higher education is accessible at Sinte Gleska University, located just 36 miles away. The area supports educational attainment, with the majority of adults holding a high school diploma or higher.

Public Schools
Name:
Colome Consolidated School
Street:
200 S. 1st St, Colome, SD 57528
Phone:
605-842-2657
Students:
160
Student Teacher Ratio:
10.5

Colleges
Name:
Sinte Gleska University
City:
Mission
State:
SD
Distance:
36 miles
Students:
1,200
Healthcare
Healthcare in Carter is supported by access to nearby facilities like Winner Regional Healthcare Center, with 1.1 physicians per 1,000 residents and 90.1% health insurance coverage. The area’s healthcare index is favorable, indicating affordable and accessible services. Emergency care is available close by, ensuring peace of mind for new residents.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Winner Regional Healthcare Center
Address:
745 E 8th St, Winner, SD 57580
Phone:
(605) 842-7100
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
90.1%
Health Care Index:
63.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Carter, SD?
Carter’s housing market is highly accessible, with a median home price of $93,000 and a strong owner-occupied rate of 74.2%. Rental options are available with an average rent of $710 for a two-bedroom, and the area experiences low foreclosure and vacancy rates. Home appreciation remains steady, making it a stable place for investment or settling down.
Median Home Price:
$93,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$710
Owner Occupied Rate:
74.2%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.5%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.7%
New Construction Rate:
0.8%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Residents of Carter can handle their licensing and vehicle needs through the South Dakota Department of Public Safety in Pierre, located at 118 W Capitol Ave. The DMV provides a full range of driver licensing services and is easily accessible by phone or online. Statewide policies and resources make vehicle management straightforward for locals.
State:
South Dakota
Department:
South Dakota Department of Public Safety - Driver Licensing
Address:
118 W Capitol Ave, Pierre, SD 57501
Phone:
1-605-773-6883
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.